JoAnn

I am a homeschooling mom of four wonderful blessings and Master Playologist with SimplyFun. I'm known for my distractedness, thus the title of my blog. It's about all of the distractions in life: those that are part of homeschooling, those that distract from our homeschooling day, and everything in between. I love everything that comes with staying at home and homeschooling the kids and wouldn't trade it for anything. I love helping others and hope to encourage parents to spend time connecting with and getting to know their kids better. You can find me on Facebook (HomeschoolDistractions or JoAnnsGames), Twitter (JoAnnsGames), and Perioscope (JoAnnsGames). You can also email me at fortheloveofshiny at gmail dot com.

Scott

Scott is my husband of 16 years. He is a wonderful father and avid supporter of homeschooling. He is the sole proprietor of IT Service Works, which he established to serve the IT needs of small businesses in the Tacoma area and beyond. If you need excellent and reliable IT support, contact him.

Saturday, March 15, 2008

Sorry I'm late getting this posted this week. We've had a very busy day. First, Scott had to go to the hardware store and buy a new thermostat so he could get the heat back on (the thermostat broke Friday leaving us without heat). While he was fixing the heat, I was cleaning up the poo my dog tracked throughout the house. Then Sammy and I had two hours of taekwondo after which I backed into a pole in the parking lot. My dad showed up soon after for a weekend visit. Then I took Mika to a birthday party after which we went to the grocery store. Then I cooked dinner, ate dinner, and made dessert. I'm finally having time to sit and post now that it is 10:30pm. And I totally forgot about the events going on today that I may have wanted to take the kids to. Here's what's coming up this week.

Izilla Toys up in Seattle is hosting another crafty afternoon on Monday from 3pm to 5pm. They will be having fun with Shrinky Dinks. Rememer those? I'm sure our kids will love them as much as we did.

Thursday, March 20th is the Third Thursday Artwalk in downtown Tacoma. There are many venues to choose one; all free from 5-8pm. Visit your favorite place or check out something new. Venues include the Tacoma Art Museum (which is actually free all day), the Washington State History Museum, and the Museum of Glass. Visit this website for a complete list of venues.

Also on Thursday, the Garfield Book Company will be hosting an Easter craft making event from 6pm to 7pm. This bookstore is kid and homeschool friendly so check them out. They are located at 208 S. Garfield Ste. 101, Parkland, WA near PLU.

There are a few events on Saturday for rock and mineral enthusiasts or those studying rocks.

Up north in Lake City, there is a rock and mineral show by the North Seattle Lapidary and Mineral Club. The show includes displays, demonstrations, junior activities, and more. It will be taking place at the Lake City Community Center Saturday from 10am-6pm and Sunday from 10am-5pm. There will be a pancake breakfast Sunday from 9am to noon. The event is free. (Yes, I know Lake City is far away but it looks interesting and I want to remember it because we are studying rocks the week followings.)

Locally, there will be a Gem Faire at the Tacoma Dome this coming weekend. You can learn about gem and mineral collecting, take classes (I believe they have an extra fee), view demonstrations, and have jewelry repaired while you wait. The event takes place Friday, March 21st from noon to 7pm, Saturday from 10am-7pm and Sunday from 10am-5pm. Cost is $5 and children 11 and under are free.

The UPS Flea Market takes place Saturday from 10am to 5pm in the UPS Field House on N. 11th and Union. The event is billed at popular with most furniture tagged as sold by 11am. So, if you're going, go early. My kids LOVE garage sales and flea markets.

The Lakewood Pierce County Library (6300 Wildaire Road SW) is showing "The Cat in the Hat" on Saturday, March 22 at 1pm as part of their Big Screen Fun events.

Also on Saturday, the Knutzen Family Theatre is putting on "The Three Pigs" at 11am and 1pm. This version of the show is billed as a "zany rendition complete with audience participation" suitable for ages 3-9 and families. Tickets are $8.

On Sunday, March 23rd, hop on over to IKEA for the Bunny Hop from 10am-1pm. Kids can grab an easter bag and hunt for prizes.